Return‐Volatility Nexus in the Digital Asset Class: A Dynamic Multilayer Connectedness Analysis

ABSTRACT Based on the rationale that returns and volatility are interrelated, we apply a multilayer network framework involving the return layer and volatility layer of cryptocurrencies, NFTs, and DeFi assets over the period January 1, 2018–January 23, 2024. The results show significant connectedness in each of the return and volatility layers, with major cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum playing a central role. Large spikes in the level of connectedness are noticed around COVID‐19 pandemic and Russia–Ukraine conflict, and Bitcoin and Ethereum emerge as net transmitters of returns and volatility shocks, emphasizing their significant role around these crisis periods. Notably, a strong positive rank correlation exists between the return and volatility layers, highlighting the significant risk–return relationship in the digital asset class. The findings suggest that economic actors should not ignore the interconnectedness between the return and volatility layers in the system of cryptocurrencies, NFTs, and DeFi assets for the sake of a comprehensive analysis of information flow. Otherwise, a share of the information flow concerning the return–volatility nexus across these digital assets would be missed, possibly leading to inferences regarding asset pricing, portfolio allocation, and risk management.